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Quality is made in the board room. A worker can deliver…

“Quality is made in the board room. A worker can deliver lower quality, but she cannot deliver quality better than the system allow.” quote by W. Edwards Deming
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“Quality is made in the board room. A worker can deliver lower quality, but she cannot deliver quality better than the system allow.”

W. Edwards Deming

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Quality depends on the system; individuals cannot exceed the limits set by organizational structures.

In simple terms: System determines quality.

Key Takeaway

Improve system design to enable higher quality work.

Themes

quality systems leadership

Mood

analytical pragmatic

Type

business leadership

When to use this quote

  • manufacturing process
  • software development
  • service delivery
  • team performance

Key Concepts

systems theory continuous improvement management

Questions to Reflect On

  • What system constraints limit your quality?
  • How can you influence system design?
A Different Perspective

System changes may face resistance or budget constraints.

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